Episode 7: A Proposal

The morning after learning about his dark past, Prince Adrian was lost in thought as he walked through the palace halls. The weight of the secrets he had uncovered made him feel uneasy. Today, there was more than just the Royal Council meeting on his mind.

After the council meeting, Adrian needed a moment to clear his head. He found himself wandering through the palace gardens, where the quiet and the gentle breeze usually helped him think.

As he walked, he noticed a figure approaching. It was Lady Isabella du Val, the youngest daughter of Duke du Val. Known for her beauty and her family’s ambition, Isabella was not someone Adrian interacted with often, so her sudden appearance surprised him.

“Your Highness,” Isabella greeted him with a warm smile, “I hope you don’t mind me seeking you out like this.”

Adrian nodded, curious but cautious. “Lady Isabella, what brings you here?”

She stepped closer, her voice soft but clear. “I wanted to speak with you in private, away from the eyes and ears of the court. There is something important I wish to discuss.”

Adrian motioned for her to continue, though he remained on guard.

Isabella’s expression grew serious. “The kingdom is in a difficult time, and we need strong alliances to secure our future. My father and I have discussed this, and we believe that a marriage between us could be the key to stabilizing the kingdom.”

Adrian’s eyes widened slightly at the proposal. “You’re suggesting…we marry?”

“Yes,” Isabella confirmed with confidence. “Our union would strengthen the ties between our families, and I believe I could be a valuable partner to you.”

Adrian considered her words, the logical side of him recognizing the benefits. A marriage with the du Val family would indeed offer significant power and influence. Yet, something about the sudden proposal felt wrong, like a hidden motive was lurking behind her words.

“I appreciate your offer, Lady Isabella,” Adrian replied carefully. “But this is a serious matter. I need time to think it over.”

Isabella’s smile didn’t waver, though Adrian caught a flicker of something in her eyes—determination, perhaps? “Of course, Your Highness. I only ask that you think about it soon. The kingdom needs strong leadership, and together, we could provide that.”

With a final curtsy, she turned and walked away, leaving Adrian alone in the garden. He watched her leave, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. Why didn’t Isabella’s proposal make him feel uneasy for the reasons it should have? And why didn’t he see any sign of discontent or unhappiness in her demeanor?

As he continued walking, he noticed Elara standing by a fountain, watching him. She had been nearby, no doubt witnessing the entire exchange. When she approached, Adrian was surprised by the calm look on her face.

“Elara,” Adrian began, unsure how to express what he was feeling. “You saw what happened, didn’t you?”

“Yes,” Elara replied, her tone even. “I did.”

Adrian searched her eyes for any sign of emotion—anger, jealousy, something—but all he saw was concern. “And…you have no thoughts on it?”

Elara looked at him, her gaze steady. “My thoughts don’t matter, Adrian. What matters is what you think.”

Her words, while supportive, left Adrian feeling uneasy. Why wasn’t she upset? Why didn’t she show any signs of jealousy? It was almost as if she was holding back, and that bothered him more than he wanted to admit.

“I just…I thought you might…” Adrian trailed off, not sure how to finish the sentence.

Elara sighed softly, stepping closer. “I care about you, Adrian. That’s why I’m saying this—make the decision that’s right for you and the kingdom. But remember, not everyone’s intentions are pure.”

Adrian felt a knot tighten in his chest. He wasn’t sure what he wanted to hear from Elara, but this wasn’t it. The cool, composed way she handled the situation made him question his own feelings and hers.

As Elara walked away, Adrian felt a mix of emotions. He was still grappling with the idea of marriage and the dark legacy that weighed on him. He knew he had to make the right choice, but the path forward was far from clear.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***